When it comes to purchasing a forklift, you want to make sure you’re getting the best for your money. It’s important to take into consideration the features and specs of the forklift that are best suited to your specific needs. Most people will agree that looking at a mini digger for sale (or even a forklift) can be daunting if you don’t understand the cost-breakdown.
From engine power to lift capacity, there are many factors to consider when purchasing a forklift. So, if you’re in the market for a new forklift, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down six features that you should look at when making this important purchase.
Read on to learn more about the essential features of a forklift, and you’ll be ready to make an informed decision when shopping for Octane forklifts.
1. Engine Power
The engine power of the forklift will help you determine what type of load it can lift. This is important because you don’t want to purchase a forklift that is underpowered and can’t lift the types of loads you need it to. If you don’t know what kinds of loads your forklift can lift, you could be putting your employees and company at risk.
Another thing to keep in mind when looking at the engine power of the forklift is the amount of noise the engine produces. Forklifts that are very loud can be loud for the operator and even the surroundings. You can expect forklifts with large engines and higher horsepower to produce more noise than those with small engines.
2. Lift Capacity
When purchasing a new forklift, the lift capacity is one of the most important things to consider. This is the maximum weight the forklift can lift at one time. So, it’s important to choose a forklift with a lift capacity that is higher than the amount of weight you need it to lift.
The lift capacity of the forklift will be listed in the specs of each model. But if it’s too technical for you, feel free to ask a sales representative to help you determine which forklift is right for you.
3. Fuel Source
The fuel source on your forklift is another feature you should take into consideration when purchasing a new forklift. For example, diesel fuel is commonly used to power forklifts because it’s very efficient and has a long lifespan. However, it can be very messy and expensive to maintain. On the other hand, electricity is a clean fuel source and less expensive to maintain, but can be difficult to store and transport.
You may also come across hybrid forklifts, which are powered by both electricity and diesel. Hybrid forklifts can be helpful if you operate in an environment where power outages are common.
4. Safety Features
The safety features found in a forklift can be life-saving. After all, a forklift is a dangerous piece of equipment. The safety features of the forklift can range from seatbelts and brake systems to the materials it’s made out of. Seatbelts are common on Octane forklifts and can help the operator stay safe in case of an accident. Brake systems are also important because they help stop the forklift when it’s in use.
5. Ergonomics
The ergonomics of a forklift are very important as they get to dictate the comfort level of the operator. There are many different types of forklifts with different ergonomics. For example, you can choose a standard reach or wide-reaching forklift. This will determine if the operator will have to stand or sit while operating the forklift.
You can also choose a hydrostatic or electric forklift. These two options determine the controls that are used on the forklift and can be helpful to those who have limited mobility.
6. Maneuverability
Another important feature to look at when purchasing a new forklift is its maneuverability. This refers to how well the forklift can turn and move in tight spaces. It’s important to choose a forklift that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, especially in storage areas. If your forklift is difficult or impossible to maneuver in small spaces, it can cause problems in your business.
You may also want to consider the turning radius of the forklift. This can help you determine if the forklift can navigate in the areas you need it to. It would be best to take a test drive in a forklift before purchasing it. This can give you a better idea of how the forklift maneuvers.
In Conclusion
Purchasing a forklift is a major investment, and it requires careful consideration before deciding which type of forklift is the best fit for your business needs.
After reading this article, you may have a better idea of what features are important to you when purchasing a forklift. Your decision-making process should now be much easier so you can get the best value for your money while increasing business productivity, reducing downtime, and maximizing safety.
